LPNM Gears Up To Capture Global Market Demand For Malaysian Pineapples

JOHOR BAHRU, July 22 (Bernama) -- New Zealand’s request for an increase in pineapple exports from Malaysia reflects its recognition of the tropical fruit’s quality, safety and competitiveness, especially the premium MD2 variety, which is increasingly gaining ground among consumers. 

Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM) chairman Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali said that, as an agency responsible for driving the development of the pineapple industry, this latest development is seen as a strategic opportunity to expand Malaysia’s export reach to high-impact regions. 

He stated that the board has currently implemented strategic measures to ensure the continuity of supplying quality pineapples that meet export standards to fulfil international markets, including New Zealand. 

“LPNM, together with related agencies, is also assessing the country’s ability and level of readiness in exporting the tropical fruit to the New Zealand market according to the standards set by that country. 

“Among the strategic moves include efforts to increase pineapple planting areas in collaboration with the state government, which is one of the important indicators towards strengthening the country’s pineapple production chain,” he said in a statement here today. 

He said other initiatives implemented include continued support to empower entrepreneurs and smallholders, supply chain management, emphasis on food quality and safety, and cross-agency cooperation. 

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, during a recent working visit to New Zealand, was quoted as saying that the country had asked Malaysia to increase pineapple exports due to high demand, which was seen as opening up a wider market potential. 

Sheikh Umar Bagharib stated that the board received positive feedback about Malaysian pineapple downstream products through two series of export trial studies to New Zealand, conducted in October 2024 and June 2025. 

This study assessed the acceptance of Malaysian pineapple downstream products, including frozen pineapple cubes, dried pineapple chunks, chips, ice cream, and pineapple energy gel. 

“The results of the study showed very positive feedback, especially in terms of taste, packaging quality and compliance with food safety standards and the country’s import requirements,” he said. 

He stated that in 2024, Malaysia exported 30,735 tonnes of pineapple-based products, including juice, canned pineapple, ornamentals, and agro-based industry products, with a total export value of RM1.73 billion for Malaysian pineapple products in the same year.

“Meanwhile, exports of fresh pineapple amounted to 11,633 tonnes worth approximately RM23.07 million, to more than 20 countries including the main markets of China, Singapore, Japan and the United Arab Emirates,” he said. 

-- BERNAMA